A guardianship is a court case in which a person who is not the parent of a child asks for custody of the child, the power to manage the child’s property, or both. There are two types of guardianships. Most cases go to the Probate Court. But if the child is a dependent or ward of the juvenile court, guardianship must be decided in Juvenile Court.

Click here to watch videos containing general information about guardianships.

Where can I get help filling out the guardianship petition?

You may be eligible for legal assistance through Riverside Legal Aid (formerly Public Service Law Corporation) or the Guardianship Assistance Program (GAP). You may contact them at 951.682.7968 (Riverside), 951.244.2920 (Mid-County), or 760.347.9456 (Indio).
Additional assistance may be available through Kin Care.

What are Probate Notes and why they are important to your case?

How to contact a Probate Examiner regarding Probate Notes

After reviewing the probate notes on the website, you may contact the probate examiner by calling the clerk's office at 951.777.3147 and request to speak with an examiner. You can also email a probate examiner. (Email is checked daily and you should receive a response within 24 hours)

However, keep in mind the examiner may only speak with you regarding procedure. Examiners may not give legal advice or advise you how to handle your matter.